DISABLED shoppers can enjoy facilities to match Britain's best with the opening of a state-of-the-art Shopmobility Centre in Leigh.

And after 18 years of championing the cause of disabled shoppers throughout the area, Wigan Councillor Brian Strett was delighted to open the new centre which he declared "a dream come true".

It has been provided through an arrangement with developers Atmore who have embarked on a multi-million pound investment in extending the town's Spinning Gate shopping centre.

The development meant Shopmobility had to leave its previous home and as compensation the new purpose-built centre has been provided for the registered charity which is contracted by Wigan Council to help people with disabilities greater independence. Scooters, wheelchairs and other appliances are available at the centre to give those with mobility problems help in getting to the shops.

The service helps 2,000 disabled people throughout the borough.

And Lowton-based Cllr Strett, who with his wife, Phyllis, officially opened the new facility, pioneered the Shopmobility cause after he and his wife saw the scheme in action 18 years ago in Cardiff.

He said: "When the scheme first started in Leigh the premises we used was an abandoned and vandalised public toilet which we refurbished.

"To have such new and modern premises opening in the town is a dream come true and we are very grateful to everyone who has made this possible."

The centre includes a plush reception area and extensive storeroom.

Shopmobility manager David Eccles said proudly: "The new centre is certainly the best in the borough if not the country.

"And the service we provide die is one to be proud of because we are able to give disabled people the independence they need to shop in every part of the borough.

"We also have big plans for our other centres."